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Can you fix a car dent with a plunger?

I have a medium-sized dent in my bumper from a hit-and-run accident. It isn’t major, and I would rather not file an insurance claim. My friends have tried to give me some helpful DIY tips, but I don’t know what will actually work—what about fixing a car dent with a plunger?

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Lynell Spencer · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Hit-and-runs are such a shame, but you’re right that this might not be worth filing an insurance claim. Luckily, fixing a car dent with a plunger is possible, and all you’ll need is the plunger and a pot of hot water.
It is important to note that this method gets mixed results and works best with the plastic or fiberglass parts of the car.
Here are the steps to take:
  • Pour hot water on the dent to soften the metal
  • Push the plunger into the dent and pull it out. It may take a couple of tries, but the dent should pop right out when you pull the plunger
Pro Tip: if the dent is in the hood or on the bumper, you can also use a rubber mallet to push the dent out from the inside.
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MORE: Hit and run insurance claims
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